Intriguing Biomedical Applications of Synthetic and Natural Cell-Derived Vesicles: A Comparative Overview

ACS Appl Bio Mater. 2021 Apr 19;4(4):2863-2885. doi: 10.1021/acsabm.0c01480. Epub 2021 Mar 10.

Abstract

The significant role of a vesicle is well recognized; however, only lately has the advancement in biomedical applications started to uncover their usefulness. Although the concept of vesicles originates from cell biology, it later transferred to chemistry and material science to develop nanoscale artificial vesicles for biomedical applications. Herein, we examine different synthetic and biological vesicles and their applications in the biomedical field in general. As our understanding of biological vesicles increases, more suitable biomimicking synthetic vesicles will be developed. The comparative discussion between synthetic and natural vesicles for biomedical applications is a relevant topic, and we envision this could enable the development of a proper approach to realize the next-generation treatment goals.

Keywords: bioimaging; drug delivery; extracellular vesicles; liquid biopsy; regenerative medicine; target specificity.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry*
  • Biomedical Research*
  • Extracellular Vesicles / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Materials Testing
  • Particle Size

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials